Grizzlies win season opener over Jackrabbits

QUINCY - With the exception of a couple of fielding errors, the season opener for the Sunnyside High School baseball team left fans with plenty to talk about.

The Grizzlies picked apart 2A Quincy yesterday, winning 8-3. Sunnyside Coach Dave Martinez said he had been told by a coach from Wenatchee Community College, who was scouting the game, that the Jackrabbits were fielding the best team they have had since winning the State title in 1998.

But if the Grizzlies showed anything yesterday it is that they aren't too bad themselves.

Sunnyside's pitching tandem of Derek Uberuaga, R.J. Elizondo and Micah Zakahi blew past the Jackrabbits in what was a solid showing. The Grizzly trio gave up seven hits and allowed only three walks while picking up nine strikeouts.

"They were pretty focused," said Martinez. "All three pitchers pitched really well yesterday."

Uberuaga gained the win yesterday for Sunnyside and Zakahi picked up the save.

The Grizzlies scored three runs in the third inning. Nathan Anderson had a two-run double in the frame.

Sunnyside did all the damage it needed in the fourth inning, coming up with five runs, all of which were scored with no outs. Pete Marquez ripped a lead-off single to start the inning. Marquez then stole second and moved over to third off a wild pitch. Elizondo walked. Jessie Ramirez laid down a squeeze bunt to plate Marquez, beating out the throw to first base. Johnson then unleashed a double to plate Elizondo. Zakahi walked to load the bases. Uberuaga, in his only hit of the day, sent a long single to the fence that cleared the bases.

Martinez said he was impressed with the way his team swung the bats in yesterday's game. He especially noted the play of Marquez, both at the plate and in the outfield.

"These kids have played so much together. I am surprised when they don't do well," said Martinez. "It was a good win for us."

The Grizzlies (1-0) will be home this weekend. On Friday, Sunnyside will host Rochester at 3:30 p.m. The Grizzlies will then host Bellingham Saturday in a 1 p.m. contest.